PSU Amperage: Serious issue for next-gen cards?

[IzGOod]

I just ordered a new system with an Asus PCI-E GF6 EN6600/128MB (I'm not the richest). The system comes with a standard 420W PSU. However, after ordering, I get a call from the shop telling me they had to switch the PSU to one with more amperage. They said Asus recently warned them that their new cards require more amperage.

Supposedly, the 420W standard one only has 16amps. He suggested a 350W PSU with 24amps I believe, for an extra 20$. Now I know alot about computers, but I never had to bother with amperage on PSUs...

I sent an e-mail to Asus to verify this, but in the meantime, I thought I could post here. Does this make sense? Has anyone heard of this?

Thanks a bunch!

 

[JBT]

It makes sense to me if you were getting a 6800 series or x800 series. I don't see why a 6600 would need it though.

 

[McArra]

Originally posted by: JBT
It makes sense to me if you were getting a 6800 series or x800 series. I don't see why a 6600 would need it though.

What he said.

 

[Marsumane]

Also important is the question of how many websites actually make this information easy to obtain when shopping for one. I assume, that if this is an issue, most companies would display it atleast on their sites. I also have never heard of such a thing to consider when buying a psu.

 

[IzGOod]

He said Asus recommended it for the 6600 series and up.

It's true that video card manifacturers rarely display wattage/amperage requirements for their cards. Though I heard some cards now come with amperage requirements on the box.

I guess for 20$ it's not a big deal. I just want to know if they're cheating me so I know not to go back there next time.

 

[Luigi30]

A 6600GT blew out my vintage 2003 off-brand 350W within a few weeks, so I'd say do what they say. Just to futureproof, I got a $90 Antec 🙂